Top US General Refuses To Act On Transgender Policy — For Now

General Joseph Dunford, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has promised there will be no change in military policy after President Trump announced he was banning transgender service members. Dunford says Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has not yet received direction from the White House and the military will not enact a policy without specific direction from the White House.

Trump took to Twitter on Wednesday to announce his newest attack on the LGBT community.

“I know there are questions about yesterday’s announcement on the transgender policy by the president,” Dunford said in a written message to military commanders.

“There will be no modifications to the current policy until the president’s direction has been received by the secretary of defense and the secretary has issued implementation guidance,” Dunford added.

“In the meantime, we will continue to treat all of our personnel with respect. As importantly, given the current fight and the challenges we face, we will all remain focused on accomplishing our assigned missions.”

Officials at the Pentagon were not told about the President’s ban on transgender people, learning of the police in a series of Tweets from the 45th POTUS.

After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow……

Vice Admiral Robert Burke, the Navy’s top personnel officer, announced on Wednesday that no personnel actions should be taken until further guidance is received by the White House. “Currently serving TG [transgender] service members will continue to receive all necessary medical care,” Burke added.

“With regard to implications for those currently serving, OSD [the Office of the Secretary of Defense] is working to quickly discern the president’s intent. Treating service members with dignity and respect is something we expect from our sailors at all times.”

While President Trump claims procedures for transgender service members is costly, only approximately 160 sailors and five Marines are known to be undergoing some form of transgender transition. Approximately 80 Army personnel are believed to be undergoing similar services. The Air Force does not share personal procedural stats with the public.